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Blue Cross reminds pet owners of Easter chocolate dangers
In 2021, Blue Cross treated 40 pets who had been rushed into their animal hospitals with suspected poisoning from eating chocolate.

An award-winning chocolatier has teamed up to spread the message.

National pet charity Blue Cross has collaborated with Paul A Young, an award-winning chocolatier, to remind pet owners of the danger that chocolate can pose to pets this Easter.

Paul A Young, chocolatier, pâtissier and television personality, urged pet owners to keep chocolate away from pets: “Chocolate is of course a big part of my life, and so is my beloved dachshund Billi - but very importantly, the two must always be kept apart!

“With Easter coming up I want to remind those with dogs and cats, that while us humans are looking forward to eating our delicious Easter eggs, chocolate must never be given to our pets. 

“By ensuring that all chocolate eggs and treats are kept well out of their reach, everyone can enjoy a safe and happy Easter together.”

Blue Cross shared a link to advice on chocolate, and Caroline Reay, head of Veterinary Services at Blue Cross, said: “Whilst it is a delicious treat for humans, chocolate can be extremely toxic to cats and dogs and should never be fed to them.

"It contains a chemical, theobromine, which is a bit like caffeine and is toxic to dogs and cats.

“As a general rule, the darker the chocolate, the higher the levels of theobromine become. It really is best to avoid your pets getting access to any sort of chocolate.

"If you have seen your pet eat something that they shouldn’t, don’t wait for symptoms to appear. Call your vet immediately and ask for their advice.”

 

Images (C) Blue Cross

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Equine Disease Surveillance report released for Q4 2025

News Story 1
 The latest Equine Disease Surveillance report has been released, with details on equine disease from Q4 of 2025.

The report, produced by Equine Infectious Disease Surveillance, includes advice on rule changes for equine influenza vaccination.

Statistics and maps detail recent outbreaks of equine herpes virus, equine influenza, equine strangles and equine grass sickness. A series of laboratory reports provides data on virology, bacteriology, parasitology and toxicosis.

This issue also features a case study of orthoflavivus-associated neurological disease in a horse in the UK. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
RCVS annual renewal fee for vets due

RCVS' annual renewal fee for veterinary surgeons is now due. Vets must pay their renewal fee before Wednesday, 1 April 2026.

This year's standard annual fee has increased to 431 from last year's 418. This is an approximately three per cent increase, as approved by RCVS Council and the Privy Council.

Tshidi Gardner, RCVS treasurer, said: "The small fee increase will be used to help deliver both our everyday activities and our new ambitious Strategic Plan, which includes aims such as achieving new legislation, reviewing the Codes of Professional Conduct and supporting guidance, and continuing to support the professions through activities such as the Mind Matters Initiative, RCVS Academy and career development."

A full breakdown of the new fees is on the RCVS website. Information about tax relief is available on the UK government website.